What You'll Learn
- The technical differences between a simple step and a piqué based on leg position.
- How to distinguish a tombé from a temps lié by identifying the preparation leg.
- Mastering transitions from both straight and bent leg positions for fluid movement.
- Understanding the mechanics of landing on demi-pointe versus a flat foot.
About This Video
In the world of classical ballet, how you move from one foot to the other determines the flow, rhythm, and technical accuracy of your dancing. While it may seem like there are infinite ways to travel across the floor, there are actually only five or six fundamental weight transfer steps. In this Broche Ballet instructional video, we break down the critical technical differences between four essential movements: the tombé, temps lié, step, and piqué.
Understanding these distinctions starts with the 'starting' leg. Are you pushing off from a straight leg or a bent leg? ' However, if you are transferring that weight directly onto a relevé or demi-pointe position, it becomes a piqué.
These subtle shifts in the height of the heel and the tension of the leg change the entire dynamic of the movement. We then explore the difference between a tombé and a temps lié. A tombé involves a distinct 'falling' motion where you push off and over with one leg into a deep plié.
In contrast, a temps lié—or 'connected movement'—requires bending both legs together in a coordinated plié before transferring the weight. Learning when to use each is vital for classical variations and adagio work alike. Many adult dancers struggle with the 'mushy' middle ground between these steps.
By isolating the 'push' of a tombé versus the 'link' of a temps lié, you can avoid common technical errors and find more clarity in your footwork. By mastering these nuances, you will improve your stability and artistic expression. Whether you are landing in a fondu or rising to a high relevé, knowing the mechanical requirements of each weight transfer allows you to dance with more confidence and intentionality.
Join us at Broche Ballet as we refine these foundational elements to help you achieve a more polished and professional aesthetic in your practice.
